Peoria Civic Center

In the heart of downtown Peoria, Illinois, lies a gem of architectural brilliance and bustling activity: the Peoria Civic Center. This entertainment complex, designed by the renowned architects Philip Johnson and John Burgee, has been a cornerstone of the city's cultural and social life since its grand opening in 1982. With its sleek, modern design and impressive facilities, the Peoria Civic Center is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the vibrant spirit of Peoria.

The History of the Peoria Civic Center

The site where the Peoria Civic Center now stands has a rich and varied history. It was once the home of Moses and Lucy Pettengill, who lived there from 1836 to 1862. The Pettengill house was a significant stop on the Underground Railroad, with Moses Pettengill serving as a conductor. In 1910, the house was demolished to make way for the Jefferson Hotel, which stood until 1978 when it was imploded to pave the way for the construction of the Civic Center.

The Peoria Civic Center officially opened its doors on June 6, 1982, with its first event, a home and garden show, taking place in the Exhibit Hall in February of that year. Since then, it has grown and evolved, including a major expansion to its lobby and meeting facilities in 2007, ensuring it remains a state-of-the-art venue for a wide range of events.

Carver Arena

One of the standout features of the Peoria Civic Center is Carver Arena. This versatile space has hosted a plethora of high-profile acts and events, making it a hub of entertainment in the region. With a seating capacity of 9,919 for hockey and indoor football, 11,433 for basketball, and up to 12,036 for concerts, Carver Arena is equipped to handle events of all sizes.

Over the years, Carver Arena has seen performances by legendary artists such as Metallica, Eagles, Elton John, Bob Seger, and Cher, to name just a few. It has also been the venue for thrilling events like World Wrestling Entertainment, Disney on Ice, and Monster Jam. Notably, Bob Seger set the record for the highest-grossing concert in the arena's history in January 2019, surpassing the previous record held by Elton John.

Carver Arena has also been a significant location for sports, hosting the Illinois High School Association boys' basketball state finals from 1996 to 2019. During these tournaments, the adjacent exhibition hall comes alive with the interactive March Madness Experience, adding to the excitement and energy of the event.

The Theater

The Peoria Civic Center Theater is another highlight of the complex. This elegant venue has been the stage for numerous memorable performances and events. In April 2019, Steve Martin and Martin Short's Now You See Them, Soon You Won't event set the record for the top comedy show in the theater's history. More recently, in March 2022, comedian Gabriel Iglesias set an all-time box office record, which was then broken by Bill Burr six months later.

The theater has also hosted record-breaking concerts, with Harry Connick Jr.'s December 2022 performance setting a new box office record. Ranked by Pollstar as the 96th top-selling theater in the world and the 3rd in Illinois, the Peoria Civic Center Theater is a premier destination for top-tier entertainment.

Tenants and Regular Events

The Peoria Civic Center is home to several prominent tenants, including the Peoria Symphony Orchestra, Peoria Ballet, Bradley Men's Basketball, and the Peoria Rivermen of the Southern Professional Hockey League (SPHL). These tenants contribute to the diverse range of events and performances that take place at the center, ensuring there is always something exciting happening.

Exploring the Grounds

As you explore the grounds of the Peoria Civic Center, you'll encounter the impressive Sonar Tide sculpture. This massive piece, created by Ronald Bladen, a pioneer of abstract minimalism, is the last and largest sculpture of his career. It serves as a striking landmark and a testament to the center's commitment to integrating art and culture into its environment.

A Hub of Activity

Whether you're a fan of music, theater, sports, or art, the Peoria Civic Center has something to offer. Its state-of-the-art facilities and rich history make it a focal point of the city's cultural and social life. From hosting world-renowned artists and thrilling sporting events to being a home for local arts organizations, the Peoria Civic Center is a dynamic and vibrant destination that continues to captivate and inspire visitors from near and far.

In conclusion, a visit to the Peoria Civic Center is more than just attending an event; it's an opportunity to experience the heartbeat of Peoria. With its impressive architecture, diverse range of events, and rich historical significance, the Peoria Civic Center is a must-see destination that promises to leave a lasting impression.